German ace Lukas Podolski reveals he was NEVER close to an Arsenal exit this summer

HERE TO STAY: Podolski says he never came close to leaving Arsenal this summer [BONGARTS]

There was speculation that the 29-year-old was set to leave the Emirates in the run-up to transfer deadline day, with Galatasaray, Napoli and Juventus all mooted as possible destinations for the World Cup winner.

“A move away from Arsenal did not fall through because I had no offers to move”

Lukas Podolski

However, no move materialised, and Podolski has revealed a move away was never seriously on the cards.

“A move away from Arsenal did not fall through because I had no offers to move,” he told German newspaper Bild.

“There have been enquiries from other countries, also from Bundesliga clubs, but I am from Cologne and it would have been tough for me to represent any other German club.

“I had a very good conversation with the manager. He has stressed he is putting trust in me and my qualities.